Milefortlet 21: Roman Coastal Defence at Swarthy Hill
Explore Milefortlet 21, a Roman coastal fortlet guarding Cumbria’s shores with ancient turf ramparts and sweeping Solway views.
Milefortlet 21, located on Swarthy Hill near Maryport, Cumbria, is a Roman coastal fortification built around 122 CE as part of the western sea defences linked to Hadrian’s Wall. Excavated in 1990-91, this archaeological site reveals turf and stone ramparts, a surrounding ditch, and remains of barracks, illustrating the Roman military strategy to guard the vulnerable Cumbrian coastline against northern incursions. The site offers scenic views and free access with informative boards.
A brief summary to Milefortlet 21
- B5300, Maryport, CA15 6SL, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit the site during daylight hours to fully appreciate the earthworks and scenic coastal views.
- Read the on-site information boards to understand the historical context and excavation findings.
- Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Maryport to explore additional Roman heritage sites and museums.
- Wear sturdy footwear as the terrain around the hill can be uneven and grassy.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the local bus service from Maryport town center to a stop near the B5300 coast road. The journey takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Buses run with moderate frequency, and the stop is a short walk to the site. No ticket is required for the short trip, but fares typically range around £2-£4.
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Car
Driving from Maryport, the site is accessible via the B5300 coast road. Allow 10-15 minutes travel time. Parking is limited near the site, so plan to park in nearby designated areas or in Maryport and walk. The terrain near the site is grassy and uneven, so suitable footwear is recommended.
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Walking
For active visitors, a walk from Maryport to Milefortlet 21 takes roughly 1.5 to 2 hours along coastal paths and minor roads. The route offers scenic views but includes some uneven and grassy terrain. This option is best suited for those comfortable with moderate-distance walks and variable footing.
Milefortlet 21 location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Milefortlet 21
Strategic Frontier Defence Beyond Hadrian’s Wall
Milefortlet 21 is a significant Roman military installation forming part of the coastal defences extending from the western end of Hadrian’s Wall along the Cumbrian coast. Constructed around 122 CE during Emperor Hadrian’s reign, it was designed to secure a vulnerable stretch of coastline near the Scottish border, where the continuous stone barrier of Hadrian’s Wall could not prevent raids by northern tribes. Unlike the Wall, these milefortlets were spaced along the coast, connected by a road rather than a continuous barrier, and served as lookout and defensive posts to monitor and control movement along the Solway Firth.Excavation and Structural Features
Discovered through aerial cropmarks in 1968 and fully excavated in 1990-91, Milefortlet 21’s remains include a 6-meter-wide rampart surrounded by a defensive ditch and evidence of a road running east to west through the fortlet. The site’s layout reveals two gates and barracks on either side of a central passageway, indicative of accommodation for Roman soldiers stationed here. The fortlet measured approximately 29.5 meters east to west and 18 meters north to south. Its turf and stone construction has been partially reconstructed to give visitors an impression of its original scale and form.Historical Context and Military Role
Milefortlet 21 was part of a broader network of coastal defences that extended from Bowness-on-Solway to Maryport and beyond, designed to complement Hadrian’s Wall by covering the exposed coastline. These fortlets housed small garrisons tasked with surveillance and rapid response to threats from the sea or land. Although the defensive system was relatively short-lived, with many milefortlets abandoned after Hadrian’s reign ended around 140 CE, they represent an important aspect of Roman military strategy in Britain.Setting and Surrounding Landscape
Situated atop Swarthy Hill, Milefortlet 21 overlooks historic saltpans and offers expansive views of the Solway coastline. The location’s elevated position provided strategic vantage points for monitoring maritime activity and potential incursions. The surrounding landscape is rural and tranquil, with the nearby village of Crosscanonby and the town of Maryport within reach. The site’s proximity to the coast road makes it accessible while maintaining a sense of remoteness.Visitor Experience and Interpretation
Visitors to Milefortlet 21 can explore the earthworks and reconstructed turf banks that outline the fortlet’s original footprint. Information boards on-site provide historical context and details about the excavation and Roman military presence. Admission is free, encouraging exploration and learning about this lesser-known but fascinating Roman frontier site. The peaceful setting and scenic views enhance the experience of stepping back into Britain’s ancient past.Preservation and Archaeological Significance
As the first milefortlet to be fully excavated along the Cumbrian coast, Milefortlet 21 holds considerable archaeological importance. Its excavation helped clarify the design and function of these coastal defences, contributing valuable insights into Roman military architecture and frontier management. The site is protected and recognized for its heritage value, ensuring its preservation for future generations to study and appreciate.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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